The Fine Line Between Colorism and Racism

Opinion by Anonymous

When one says that they “see color,” it is not limited to racism. Colorism is discrimination based on skin color and the implications that come with it. Although colorism interconnects with racism, it is common to find colorist ideas within a race. For example, in the black community, dark skin black women are known to be less desirable than black women with lighter skin tones. Part of the reason is that having darker skin is associated with being masculine. For this reason, people inside and outside of the black community perceive dark skin black men as more, while dark skin black women are more prone to ridicule and insecurities based on their skin color. However, colorism is not limited to the black community. In general, lighter skin tones are praised across many cultures. Numerous skin lightening products, the media, and even our close family and friends reinforce this preference for fair skin. Even though some may say their preference for lighter skin tones is harmless, they should question what basis their it lies on because dark skin is not inherently inferior. Despite its representation, dark skin does not implicate that one is aggressive, strong, or masculine. It is our mindset that must change, not our skin.

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Credits

NCCJ